The present disclosure generally relates to dental attachments or aligners. In particular, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for simulation to optimize the design of digital attachments and aligners that help to remove or reduce visits to a dental provider for extended periods during which a tooth or a group of teeth are moved or aligned to a desired position. As such, the present disclosure can provide aligner and attachments designs and modifications with realistic dentoalveolar simulations.
Orthodontic aligners are generally used to align teeth for medical and cosmetic reasons. There is limited published science about an aligner's biomechanical interactions with teeth. The design of aligners and the choice of a best attachment for each movement for a tooth or a group of teeth, and for each patient may be based on trial-and-error, along with recommendations from orthodontic companies. The limited published scientific rationale and data makes it difficult to ascertain the number of visits required and the number of subsequent adjustments required to enable a level of comfort and a proper correction to the intended positions.
While there are software providing tests designs for aligners and attachments utilizing a transducer approaches, there is limited data published in the literature to biomechanically justify the approaches currently in effect. For example, a limitation of the transducer approaches is that realistic oral boundary conditions and deformations of the periodontal ligament on a target tooth, as well as on adjacent teeth, may not be considered in the transducer approaches. Transducer approaches further require a review of the current position of an aligner and attachments are studied in comparison with the initial position. The review also takes into consideration any jostling for space caused by movement of the target tooth and the adjacent teeth. As the aligner, in such a process, depends on interaction of a surface of the aligner with the teeth, transducer measurements in the transducer approaches tend to be rigid and somewhat misleading. For example, because the transducer approaches are rigid, they may be unable to simulate periodontal ligament deformations and take such issues into account during an initial visit to set the aligner into place. Furthermore, transducer approaches generally are only used for research purposes on sample dentition, rather than for specific patient treatments because they can require significant amounts of time and money for generation of models.
Currently there are also Finite Element Analysis models published, but these models do not take into account enough boundary conditions (occlusal load) and the comparison between different simulated design is mathematically weak. It is more qualitative comparison than a quantitative numerical comparison.
Provided here are systems and methods for simulating attachments and aligners for a tooth or a group of teeth that are moved or aligned to a desired position.
Certain embodiments include a system including at least one processor and memory including instructions that, when executed in part by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to support or perform certain function is disclosed. In addition, a method using the system or any system configured in the manner as disclosed herein is also discussed. Furthermore, a non-transitory medium including instructions for executing on at least one processor is available to enable any system to support or perform the functions as follows.
In some embodiments, an orthodontic device or system can deliver a complex force system which involves forces and moments in space, such as three forces and three moments in the 3D space. Orthodontic movement can be defined by a combination of moments and forces applied to a tooth. Teeth morphology can be different and/or asymmetric, such that the forces/moments can have a different impact on tooth movement for each plane and each tooth.
In some embodiments, a system, via the at least one processor, can determine axial plane values for at least one tooth or a group of teeth. A coordinate system can be determined from the axial plane values. A crown location, such as a crown center or other suitable crown location, can be located using the coordinate system. The crown location may be for the tooth or a tooth of the group of teeth. The tooth may be a target tooth that requires the most movement in an aligning process for a patient. An attachment at the crown location for a digital aligner can be determined. The attachment at the crown location for the digital aligner may be determined for provision of a physical format for the group of teeth. A digital penetration can be determined between the digital aligner and the tooth. A simulation model, such as including at least a finite element analysis or other suitable model, e.g., statistical models, supervised learning models, etc., can be applied to determine orthodontic data for a center of rotation for the tooth based at least in part on the digital penetration. At least one variation to the attachment or the digital aligner can be provided based in part on the orthodontic data.
In some embodiments, a method or process can include obtaining or receiving information related to sets of sets of teeth (e.g., 2 or more full sets of teeth), e.g., by combining cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and optical scan for selected patients or more in general 3D digital reconstructions. Thereafter, a simulation model, e.g., including finite element analysis, statistical analysis, etc. for each tooth can evaluate the centers of rotation thereof. In one embodiment, a finite element analysis can be performed for various different force systems (e.g., up to 510 or more force systems) for each tooth to evaluate their centers of rotation. The center of rotation locations can be analyzed to show that the moment/force effect relates to a spatial plane on which the moment is applied, to the force direction and to the tooth morphology. The tooth dimensions on each plane can be used to derive their influence on tooth movement. Accordingly, qualified professionals, e.g., orthodontists, dental practitioners, etc., can determine how the teeth move and their axes of resistance, depending on their morphology alone. In some examples, movement can be controlled, determined, etc. by a parameter (“k”), which depends on tooth dimensions and force system features. The parameter k for a specific tooth can be generated, calculated, etc. using a CBCT and a specific set of predictors. In one example, parameter k can be defined as a constant of proportionality depending on a plane, force direction, and the specific tooth.
Still further, in some embodiments, statistical analyses can be performed to obtain/generated generalized formulae to locate the tooth CRES and calculate an approximate “k” for every tooth and force system. For example, multiple linear regression analysis can be conducted to assess the influence of the teeth morphological data for at least one dataset. Hypotheses further can be tested at a prescribed level (e.g., an alpha=0.05 level) for at least one additional “k” dataset. Furthermore, to evaluate the performance of the regression models, predictors can be tested on a randomly chosen tooth, such as a mandibular central incisor reconstructed through combination of CBCT and an optical scanner. Then, CRES coordinates and k values can be derived using predictors obtained by the regression models, and the FEA datasets can be compared.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments by reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings.
The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments discussed herein. No attempt is made to show structural details of this disclosure in more detail than may be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the exemplary embodiments discussed herein and the various ways in which they may be practiced. According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.
So that the manner in which the features and advantages of the embodiments of systems for simulation of dental attachments or aligners and associated methods, as well as others, which will become apparent, may be understood in more detail, a more particular description of the embodiments of the present disclosure briefly summarized previously may be had by reference to the embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings, which form a part of this specification. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only various embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the present disclosure's scope, as it may include other effective embodiments as well.
The method and system of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which embodiments are shown. The method and system of the present disclosure may be in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the illustrated embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In an embodiment, usage of the term “about” includes +/−5% of the cited magnitude. In an embodiment, usage of the term “substantially” includes +/−5% of the cited magnitude.
It is to be further understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the exact details of construction, operation, exact materials, or embodiments shown and described, as modifications and equivalents will be apparent to one skilled in the art. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed illustrative embodiments and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation.
In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments and these embodiments may be used in any combination as may be readily understood by a person of ordinary skill upon reading the present disclosure. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.
Methods and systems presently disclosed addresses the aforementioned failures by providing digital simulations of an aligner and attachment set up for movements of individual tooth and/or groups of teeth. As such, the simulations represent options for selecting one of the aligner and/or attachment approach to resolve periodontal ligament deformations and take such issues into account during an initial visit to set the aligner into place. As the present process incorporates at least one variation in an iterative process to improve the simulation, the present process provides an optimal selection of the aligner and/or the attachment. This also represents a decrease in the number of visits required and the number of subsequent adjustments required to enable a level of comfort and a proper correction to the intended positions of the tooth and/or groups of teeth. Aligners may include attachments, and a person of ordinary skill, upon reading the present disclosure, would recognize that selection of an attachment corresponds to selection of an aligner to support the attachment. As such, this disclosure may refer to the selection of an attachment alone, but such a selection may then be extended to the aligner by selection of material and shapes that correspond between the attachment and aligner. Further, in view of the above, the discussion herein uses attachments and aligners interchangeably unless otherwise explicitly noted and a person of ordinary skill would understand from this discussion as to transferring requirements from an attachment to an aligner or an aligner to an attachment, and to the use of both as required.
The outcome of the method and system supports a new biomechanically centered aligner and attachment system that optimizes many features required to enable the aforementioned level of comfort and proper correction to the intended positions to secure a best shape for an aligner, attachment or group of attachments. For example, a simulation providing a selection of a biomechanically centered aligner and attachment system may then be used to generate an aligner and/or attachment system in a physical format by any available machining system, including by use of 3-dimensional (3D) printing or computer numeric control (CNC) machines. The features referenced above may include a first feature enabled by the present disclosure—of a system requiring a higher magnitude of force to move a tooth in a desired direction with a least magnitude of force directed to undesired directions of movement. This feature may be a quantitative criterion defined by threshold limitations applied in the simulation model to restrict the simulation model. A second feature enabled by the present disclosure is a feature of delivering a smallest distance between an intended center of rotation and an obtained center of rotation in the plane of movement. As with the prior feature, this may also be a qualitative criterion controlled in the simulation model as a variation applied in the simulation model, and which may then be applied in the physical format. Certain embodiments include an additional feature of delivering a smallest distance between an intended axis of rotation and an obtained axis of rotation in the plane of movement
A third feature enabled by the present disclosure is a feature of allowing a determined level of grip (geometric fit) of the aligner to the tooth or group of teeth, and in the direction of the movement that is desired for achieving control of the movement. As such, the level of grip achieved is generally the best in relation to prior trial-and-error methods. In an example, if a tooth needs to be rotated around a long axis of a prism-type attachment, then the simulation model and subsequent orthodontic data would support that the prism-type attachment be cut into a triangular shape. This shape would allow the attachment to perform better than other available shapes, such as a square shape or any subsequent multi-faceted prism shape, including a cylindrical shape.
A fourth feature enabled by the present disclosure is a feature of allowing a determined freedom for a geometric fit of same entities in multiple planes of space. For example, when a tooth is not required to be moved in a certain direction, then the simulation model and subsequent orthodontic data would reflect a cylindrical shape as being appropriate for the application in question. While these features may be performed independently, the present disclosure also supports a fifth feature that is a combination of two or more of the aforementioned features that are achieved by the simulation model, the orthodontic data, and any variations applied to the simulation model to update the simulation model. For example, the first two aforementioned features may be combined to achieve an equilibrium environment in terms of forces between the target tooth and adjacent teeth. In particular, the equilibrium environment may be as to anchorage teeth that support movement of the target tooth, and optionally of the adjacent teeth, with the forces being applied to achieve the equilibrium environment.
A sixth feature in the present disclosure supports differentially altering a stiffness of an aligner material in the simulation model, which will then provide for an aligner in the physical format that uses a wire or material with a larger elastic modulus, for example. Such an implementation accommodates the other features, including a higher magnitude of force system in an intended direction with least forces in unintended directions, the least distance of movement, and the determined level of grip to force the movement.
The qualified professional 204 works with a provider of the software and of the equipment 218A to provide physical format attachments and/or aligners to be used with the subject's teeth 206 from the simulated or digital attachments and/or aligners. The physical format attachments and/or aligners generated using the simulation model and subsequent processes are long-term attachments and/or aligners that take into consideration most changes the subject 202 may undergo due to natural growth and changes from the initial positions proposed for the physical format attachments and/or aligners. As such, the subject 202 may not be required to revisit the facility 218. One aspect of the present simulation provides two options for each scenario to evaluate the threshold boundary conditions during treatment. In a first simulation, there is no accountability in place based in part on restrictions for displacement of a digital aligner (and subsequently, for the physical format aligner). This simulation may correspond to a condition representing phases or future changes when there is no contact between a mandibular and a maxillary arch and when the mouth is slightly open. In a second simulation, there is no accountability in place based in part on restrictions for the displacement of the digital aligner (and subsequently, for the physical format aligner) in the direction perpendicular 214 to the occlusal plane 216. The occlusal points on the external aligner surface are restricted from any movement. Occlusal plane, along with other axis used to determine movement of the teeth are referred to herein as axial planes. The simulation, as prepared above, may correspond to a completely closed mouth of subject 202. As such, a physical format aligner based on such simulations accounts for an occlusal pressure on an area of contact with the opposite arch that cannot have vertical displacement.
The present disclosure clarifies a nonlinear relationship that may exist between tooth movement and force system directions. In an example, a formula known as the Burstone formula may need modification to incorporate the tooth movement and force system directions presently disclosed. A person of ordinary skill, with the knowledge of the Burstone formula will readily understand the required modifications on reading the presently disclosed methods and system. Given two force systems, system A and system B, in different directions, and given two displacements A′ and B′ of a tooth or group of teeth, an average vectorial force system (A+B)/2 may not necessarily result in an average displacement (A′+B′)/2. As such, different types of nonlinear behavior depend on the applied force and moment directions.
Systems and methods disclosed here take into consideration and root asymmetries, as well as specific differences in tooth morphology are presently incorporated into the simulation models to resolve this issue. As a result, tooth morphology as provided by morphological characteristics of the tooth is relied upon to determine this nonlinear behavior. Statistical analysis is a basis to determine tooth movement in any direction as a prediction when data on root morphology and the original force system are provided to or obtained by the professional as noted with regard to
Dental features 212 illustrate axes for Mesio-Distal and for Linguo-Buccal dimensions, while dental features 214 provides a simplistic coordinate axes for a maxillary canine, and dental features 216 provides a coordinate system for a cement-enamel-junction (CEJ). Particularly, the CEJ intersection is illustrated at the center 216A of the illustrated tooth. The CEJ intersection may refer to an intersection of the center of resistance (CRES) coordinates defined on the plane XY by the intersection between the Mesio-Distal and the Linguo-Buccal tooth dimensions. On the Z-axis, a coordinate system is located at the average between CEJ on the Mesio-Distal dimensions and CEJ on the Linguo-Buccal dimensions. In an example, penetration data is generated for each simulation using moment and forces (M/F or M:F) values at the CRES of the tooth and using distances between the intended and obtained centers of rotation. Here, to perform the above determination, the morphology of the teeth is reflected in a parameter k, which depends on tooth dimensions and force system features. A k parameter dataset is generated for a subject's tooth using parameters—e.g., the axes values recited above—or is generated for a general or random tooth using a CBCT analysis and using a specific set of predictors as described throughout this disclosure. All dimensions disclosed herein may be measured at the tooth CEJ and the two axes intersecting at center 216A. The average root length may be calculated as the average between Root ZX and root YZ axes in dental features 212. The above processes provide a determination of axial plane values for at least a group of teeth and also support determination of the coordinate system from the axial plane values. The center of resistance generally depends on tooth morphology and remains constant, and thus, the center of resistance is typically measured prior to starting the attachment simulation, e.g., through multiple, such as 3, FEA simulations, although alternatively it is possible to calculate its approximate coordinates using the predictors from Tables 8 and 9. Table 9 lists the predictors to calculate an approximate Center of resistance location. Table 8 lists the Center of resistance locations measured using FEA for a set of teeth.
A set of predictors can be applied to a generic tooth when the CRES coordinates are known. The above-referenced Burstone formula may be used to provide a relationship between tooth dimensions and a CRES location on the tooth along an axis for the tooth, for example. In the present disclosure, a statistically based 3D mathematical relationship is obtained for CRES and the tooth morphology. In an example, the CRES coordinates for a known dataset of a general set of teeth is used to introduce a set of predictors. From the predictors, the 3D CRES coordinates are determined based on the tooth dimensions. In another example, the predictors may be obtained by statistical analysis on the CRES locations of 14 maxillary and 14 mandibular teeth, so the power and accuracy is naturally limited by this sample size. This may be based in part on a set of teeth from a subject wishing to receive treatment for repositioning, adjusting, or correcting teeth positions.
In one embodiment, k values can be calculated or generated based on one or more predictors/coefficients, such as shown in TABLE 1. In TABLE 1, k coefficients/predictors for each tooth are shown, and LB is related to the linguobuccal dimension at CEJ; MD is related to the mesiodistal dimension at CEJ; RYZ is related to the root length on the plane YZ; RZX is related to the root length on the plane ZX; and RAVG is related to the average between RYZ and RZX. The predictors used to calculate “k” can include the unstandardized coefficients, though standardized coefficients can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some variations, the parameter k can be predicted with the set of k predictors/coefficients shown in TABLE 1 at a statistically significant level (P<0.05). It further is possible to retrieve different equations for each tooth and planes and thus “k” can be estimated for every tooth in any direction in this manner, for example, k for tooth LR1 and plane XY, can be calculated as k=−2.925+0.436*RYZ-0.012*Angle.
In additional or alternative embodiments, the equations in TABLE 2 can be used to generate or to determine parameter k. The equations incorporate predictors for each tooth. The equations may change depending on the plane at issue and/or roots. In the equation, for example, X represents the tooth Linguo-Buccal length or size at the CEJ, Y represents the tooth Mesio-Distal length or size at the CEJ, Z represents a maximum Root length or size on the Linguo-Buccal direction, and A represents an angle between the force and an axis of the coordinate plane. The coordinate axis includes the Z-axis that is perpendicular to the occlusal plane, the Y-axis that is parallel to the occlusal plane and that follows the Mesio-Distal direction, and the X-axis that is parallel to the occlusal plane and follows the Linguo-Buccal direction.
The numerically represented orthodontic data is provided in illustrative format via illustrations 304 for each PLANE value. Predicted or projected initial placements of attachments (e.g., brackets) 304A, 304B, and 304C, and their corresponding CRES 304D, 304E, and 304F are also provided. The marked distance values D1, D2, and D3 are distances measured between each bracket and CRES on each direction for a maxillary first premolar. For example, D1 is a distance function represented by Distance (CRES-Bracket) on the Linguo-Buccal axis (X), D2 is a distance function represented by Distance (CRES-Bracket) on direction perpendicular to Occlusal Plane (Z), and D3 is a distance function represented by Distance (CRES-Bracket) on Mesio-Distal axis (Y).
With D1, D2, and D3 determined, Force Direction values are determined based in part on angles established by the axis in question, such as Linguo-Buccal, Occlusal Plane or Mesio-Distal axis. These values are provided in equations (1)-(3), along with the MF values at CRES to provide the MF at Bracket points, MFBracket:
Where:
Distance measurements D1, D2, and D3 are shown in
From the above discussion, it is apparent to a person or ordinary skill that the present disclosure determines the relationships between all meaningful permutations of M:F ratios and a projected or expected center of rotation (CROT), for different force directions, in the only available axial plane that supports rotation—as illustrated in
The resulting CROT coordinates and the distances from the CRES are evaluated and analyzed based in part on a mathematical relationship between M:F ratios and CROT as provided in equation (4). For example, taking Distance, D), as a difference between CRES and CROT, and taking corresponding M:F ratios for distance D, parameter k establishes a relationship for M:F ratios and CROT for the target tooth, in its corresponding axial plane. This provides a location for a crown location, such as a crown center or other suitable location, using the coordinate system. The crown location, such as the crown center, is for a target tooth to be repositioned, adjusted, or moved, along with its adjacent teeth forming a group of teeth. Equation (4) is a simple hyperbolic equation taken to establish a relationship between CRES and CROT.
The knowledge of the relationship between CRES and expected CROT helps properly position the bracket or attachment using the previously provided distance equation from the CRES for D1, D2, and D3, and the predicted M:F ratios from equations (1)-(3). This process represents locating a crown center, using the coordinate system, for a tooth of the group of teeth.
Methods disclosed here are valid for every technique that measures the force system delivered to the tooth by an orthodontic appliance. In one example, simulation models may be directed to discretization of the moments and forces. As such, available simulation models include Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Finite Difference analysis, and Finite Volume analysis. In these methods differential equations, such as partial differential equations are converted to sets of polynomials with convergence when parameters in the partial differential equations are adjusted. The parameters are as discussed throughout this disclosure, including the moments and forces available at the CRES and the CROT. This is readily apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure. Through FEA, comparative maps of effects of relevant M:F combinations on each tooth can be generated. Then, statistical evaluation of the comparative maps is conducted to determine whether the tooth morphological features are able to predict how the tooth will move with a specific force system. For example, such statistical evaluation may be to find the best fit or dominant features in the tooth morphological features. The best fit or dominant features provides significance of the comparative maps—indicating to a professional that the biomechanical behavior of any tooth may be derived using the presently disclosed force system and tooth dimensions. Moreover, this may be done without further FEA requirements.
Subsequent to the above process, sets of predictors—as made available in the CBCT analysis—can be applied to a generic tooth instead of requiring a subject tooth, when the CRES coordinates (e.g., location) are known for the subject tooth. As such, a relationship is established between the distance DC.Res-C.Rot and the tooth shape and its dimensions. The Burstone formula, as previously described, provides this relationship for at least an incisor on the tooth long axis in 2D. The present statistical methods, therefore, establish a 3D mathematical relationship between the distance DC.Res-C.Rot and tooth morphology, which may be translated to a 3D graphical model as illustrated in
Here, MF1 and MF2 represent the M:F ratios necessary to obtain the optimal CROT coordinate on the plane and can be evaluated knowing k and the distance between the CRES and the expected CROT, as discussed with respect to equation (4). The k value being specific for each tooth, as discussed with reference to TABLE 1, and being dependent on the tooth morphology, then requires specific one of the attachments 404. For the required M:F ratios to achieved the expected CROT 402, different attachments 404 are available. In a further example, results of average of different scenarios (M:F ratios with variations based on k and expected CROT 402) for each attachment shape may be calculated and used to rank the different configurations. TABLE 3 provides example M:F ratios for a rotation along the tooth long axis.
Based in part on the M:F ratios, such as from TABLE 3, a determination of the resulting distances of movement expected using the attachments are made. An example set of resulting distances are provided in TABLE 4. One of ordinary skill would understand from the present disclosure that a cylindrical-shaped attachment provides best result in both scenarios in these examples.
From the prior determination of an attachment at the crown location for a digital aligner, a physical format attachment for an aligner may be provided for the group of teeth. Furthermore, an aggregate measure may be utilized with the above measurements to determine how many teeth require the attachments to achieve the desired rotation and movement. Further, such measurements may be parametrically changed to evaluate the effect of each variable on the efficacy of the desired orthodontic movement prior to finalizing the position of the brackets or attachments for the physical format aligners. The selection of a cylinder with optimum dimensions results in better movement than some of the other example attachments 404. The results in TABLE 4 support that the shape of the attachment is an important component of the present disclosure. For example, the above TABLE 4 provides that there are least constraints to a cylinder shape. The cylinder shape does not load the tooth as much with undesirable force systems, and limits the loads to the tooth with the desired force system. This may be because of a smaller distance between the intended CROT and the actual for the tooth CROT for the tooth. As such, the magnitude of the force system in undesirable components that could lead the tooth to an undesired position is also small because of the distance of movement being small.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the distance between the resulting CROT and the expected CROT on each plane can be determined, e.g., after measuring the force system delivered to a selected tooth, through the following set of equations:
Where:
Using the distances resulting by the Eqs. 6-8 may indicate how much the force system elicited by the appliance differs from the optimal force system making it easier to compare results obtained by different appliances or attachments.
The above rationale achieves a similar result as changing the aligner shape for each subject during a phase of achieved movement in a physical alignment process, but has at least an advantage of having faster setup times, reducing the number of subsequent visits, and simulating different movements that may not be observed between scheduled visits. The present disclosure, thereby, predicts the correction and reduces the number of subsequent adjustments required by a subject. The use of the above-referenced mathematical processes achieves equilibrium to the same endpoint—correction of a subject's teeth alignment.
For this example, the graphical variations 600 and 640 of
Further, as indicated in
The equilibrium equation solving capability in the FEA enables resolution of the above modeling implement our realistic testing method. The FEA simulation model also allows for continuous optimization of the design of these appliances simulating a multitude of oral conditions.
For example, method 900 includes a sub-process 902 for determining axial plane values for at least a group of teeth. A coordinate system is determined, via sub-process 904, from the axial plane values. Sub-process 906 allows locating of a crown location, such as a crown center or other suitable crown location, using the coordinate system. The crown location, such as the crown center, is for a tooth of the group of teeth. The tooth may be a target tooth that requires the most movement in an aligning process for a patient. In sub-process 908, an attachment at the crown center for a digital aligner is determined. The attachment at the crown center for the digital aligner may be determined for provision a physical format for the group of teeth. In sub-process 910, a digital penetration is determined between the digital aligner and the tooth. A simulation model, such as an FEA, may be used via sub-process 912, to determine orthodontic data for a center of rotation for the tooth based at least in part on the digital penetration. Sub-process 914 provides verification for whether at least one variation to the attachment or the digital aligner exists based in part on the orthodontic data. When the verification cannot confirm an existence of a variation, then sub-process 902 may be initiated with other axial plane values. When the verification confirms a variation to the attachment or the digital aligner, this variation is provided based in part on the orthodontic data, via sub-process 916. The variation reflects equilibrium achieved for the digital penetration after the initial digital penetration illustrated in
Furthermore, the sub-process 912 may calculate the center of rotation for the tooth based at least in part on the digital penetration. This reflects a change in the center of rotation as the simulated wearing phase has occurred. The method 900 also supports generating a digital view of the digital aligner in an initial configuration as provided in
The orthodontic data is determined for each simulation are the M:F values at the center of resistance of the tooth and distances between the intended and actual (or obtained) centers of rotation. The simulated attachments for the simulated aligners are tested for digital penetration. In an example, a pre-built library of tooth movements and force systems, along with one or more statistical models may be used to individualize the relationships between centers of rotation and force systems for any tooth of any subject from the subject's basic tooth dimensions. The at least one variation may be one or more of: a shape or a material for a physical aligner corresponding to the digital aligner. In another example, the method 900 may include further sub-processes for applying one or more of: a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (“CBCT”) and an optical scan for a subject; and for determining the axial plane values for at least the group of teeth from the one or more of the CBCT and the optical scan. In yet another implementation, the method 900 includes additional features for generating averaged dimensioned teeth for a subject. The method 900 may then determine the axial plane values from the averaged dimensioned teeth.
In addition to the above, method 900 may further include features to determine that one of: load magnitudes and displacements, for the tooth, is affected by a shape or a material proposed in the digital aligner. When such a determination is made then a further determining may be performed for one of: stiffness, diameter, depth, and position and orientation on the crown of the digital aligner that may be varied as part of the at least one variation to the attachment or the digital aligner. A selecting sub-process is performed for a configuration including a selected one of: load magnitudes and displacements, and a selected one of: stiffness, diameter, and depth, for the attachment or the digital aligner.
When no simulation model is available, further data is sought via sub-process 932. When the orthodontic data is sufficient and suitable, a generation of the simulation model occurs, via sub-process 946, using the orthodontic data. A determination for moments and forces at the center of resistance based in part on the simulation model is made via sub-process 948. A second verification is performed—this time for the simulation model to reflect at least one variation to the attachment or the digital aligner. This is performed via sub-process 950. A failure of the verification would initiate a further simulation model, perhaps with variation to the orthodontic data. When the verification passes, a change to the attachment or the digital aligner is provided using the at least one variation, via sub-process 952.
In an example, TABLE 5 is generated from 3D models for each tooth-PDL-bone complex by integrating CBCT scans obtained for the subjects using Planmeca® ProMax® 3D Max unit and surface structured light scan. An optical scanner was used to reconstruct the teeth crowns through the digitalization of plaster casts. The 3D individual dental tissues obtained by the optical scanner and the CBCT were fused to obtain multi-body orthodontic models with minimum user interaction. The obtained geometries were auto patched to create trimmed Non-uniform rational basis spline (NURBS) surfaces, which were converted into vendor neutral file format allowing the exchange of CAD models Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) using Geomagic Studio®. The points of measurement for the tooth dimensions of TABLE 5 are illustrated in
A linear elastic model is applied for each structure to test the movements under the assumption of low PDL strains as in TABLE 6.
The geometries from TABLE 5 and any required material specification from TABLE 5 or other information are fed into a simulation model, such as an FEA, where all the bodies were meshed with solid elements. The coordinate system was defined for each tooth according to the occlusal plane. The X-axis was congruent with the Linguo-Buccal tooth dimension, while the Y-axis with the Mesio-Distal and the Z-axis was perpendicular to the occlusal plane. An example of coordinate system is shown in
Sub-process 982C illustrates a flow of the feeding of the CAD models into an FEA solver, such as Ansys16®. The FEA solver seeks to evaluate the parameters entered to provide a simulation model that is then subject to configuration changes to determine digital penetration. Sub-process 982D provides definition of the coordinate system according to the occlusal plane in the manner performed in methods 900, 930, and 960. Further, definition, as used in this example is a determination process for the coordinate system using the occlusal plane. Sub-process 982E evaluates a CRES coordinate from the provided definitions. The loop sub-method 984 then occurs. In sub-process 984A, force application occurs according to TABLE 7, which lists moment and forces applicable to each tooth to locate the approximate CRES, while keeping the PDL principal strain value below 7.5%.
The CRES is found for three configurations of each tooth-one for each coordinate plane, by applying a moment with the specific values shown in TABLE 7. A tooth-specific constant force was applied at the CRES, while the M:F was varied from about-12 mm to about 12 mm, for each tooth in TABLE 7. The moment amount as well as the forces amounts were proportionally different for each tooth, because each tooth requires a different load to keep the PDL strain <7.5% and allowing for a linear PDL model within this range. The bone's nodes further can be assigned zero displacement to simulate a rigid body due to the transient nature of tooth displacement solely attributed to bone deformation. Simulations further can be performed on the three spatial planes (plane XY, plane YZ, plane ZX). In one example, for each plane, 17 equivalent force systems can be applied at the CRES of each tooth, as shown in
Furthermore, the approximate 2D projections of the axes of resistance (from axis including CRES) for each of the configurations are recorded. A mesh defining each region of the digital aligner is iteratively generated until reaching an edge size of 0.1 mm is reached. This may be a maximum accepted error on the CRES location. Final positions of the axes of resistance are recorded. Then, as noted in the above sub-processes, including sub-process 984B, for each tooth the average of three different CRES configurations, obtained at the last iteration, are evaluated and used as the approximate CRES location for the subsequent analyses or changes to the simulation model. The CRES coordinates were measured with the coordinate system located at the center of the CEJ (Cement-enamel-junction) as shown in
Sub-process 984C verifies if all force directions were evaluated. When such verification indicates that other force directions need evaluation, sub-process 984D is performed to rotate the force direction of 10 degrees towards the second coordinate axis and to perform sub-process 984B for updating the simulation model in the FEA. Sub-method 986, otherwise, occurs when all the force directions are evaluated. Sub-process 986A performs an application of the moment from TABLE 7 in a manner perpendicular to the plane. Loop of sub-method 986 may be repeated until the moments are exhausted as verified under sub-process 986B. When all the moments have no exhausted, sub-process 986D is performed prior to repeating the loop of sub-method 984. Sub-process 986C provides the evaluation of all of the CROT coordinates.
In an example, for each tooth, the different M:F were applied at the respective CRES, via sub-processes 984A and 986A, to provide a generalized map of tooth movements referenced at the tooth that can be transferred to any appliance (e.g. brackets, aligners, etc.). This could be via equations (1)-(3) previously discussed. With the application of simple equivalent force system calculations, as in these equations, it is possible to transfer the force system to any bracket position.
The analysis process in each of methods 900, 930, 960, and 980 demonstrate that the CRES coordinates can be calculated with a set of predictors shown in TABLE 9 with a significance of 0.05. The coefficients are noted as unstandardized and standardized (via short form) where appropriate.
Different equations for each spatial coordinate discerns among maxillary and mandibular teeth as previously noted. The standard errors reported in TABLE 9 show that there is a lower relative error for the Z coordinate. This can be ascribed to the lower absolute value of the Z and Y coordinates which could have brought to lees precise measurements and maybe to a real lower correlation with the tooth morphology compared with the Z coordinate.
The analysis above confirms that parameter k is predictable and presently relied upon by inputting the root dimensions, the force direction, and the spatial plane, in a simulation mode, such as an FEA, with possible iterations to adjust at least one variation. The crown size was not statistically significant to predict parameter k. These results also show that a different set of predictors should be used for each plane and a further distinction should be based on the tooth morphology. One of ordinary skill, upon reading this disclosure can understand that a 95% confidence interval for the parameter k may be wide for some of the coefficients of this parameter, but that standard error depends on the number of samples and can be therefore reduced as more datasets are provided to the system.
As shown in TABLE 11, the “k” variability may be different among different teeth and among different planes for the same tooth. For example, for the maxillary lateral incisor of the first patient the percentage change varies from 42% on the plane XY to 366% on the plane YZ. While comparing the results on the same plane for different teeth, e.g., considering the plane XY for the first patient, the percentage difference varies from the 3.4% of the mandibular first molar to 151% of the maxillary second premolar. The analysis of the “k” values on the different planes may show that they depend not only on the force direction, but also on the moment direction. If the force is applied parallel to the mesio-distal tooth axis (y-axis) “k” assumes an average value of 3.3 if the moment is applied along the z-axis (Plane XY) and a value of 15.1 if the moment is applied along the z-axis (Plane YZ).
TABLE 10 shows exemplary datasets of “k” values for exemplary patients, e.g., patient 1 and patient 2:
TABLE 11 shows a percent variation of k on each plane varying the force direction from one coordinate axis to the other.
In some embodiments, a random mandibular central incisor can be selected to demonstrate the predictor efficacy. TABLE 12 and
For example,
Subsequently, at step 994, the model/simulator 991 can provide/export information from the simulation/model in step 992, e.g., the information developed with regard to the deformed/final teeth position 994A by the application of the initial aligner in step 992. Furthermore, data information related to a new 0.2 mm uniform PDL around each tooth 994B can be generated/recreated, and information/data related to the new socket for teeth and PDL on the original bone 994C also can be generated/recreated. In some examples, the tooth and PDL positions is updated according to stress and strain values of bone, PDL, and tooth, e.g., to simulate osteogenesis and osteonecrosis processes.
In step 994 in
Furthermore, in some embodiments, it may not always be practical for dental professionals to run an FEM model before each and every orthodontic treatment, e.g. at each treatment step, and thus, it is possible to evaluate an approximate attachment configuration without FEA, which could be useful to optimize the treatment quickly (e.g., the following can be a part of the model/simulator 991 as shown in
For example, it can be recognized that the k factor illustrates that the tooth morphology is related to the distance CRES-CROT, which can describe the quality of the movement on each plane. The quality also can be related to the attachment shape and depth and the expected movement and to the attachment location on the crown surface in relation to the Axis of resistance. The quantity of the movement further can be related to the attachment dimensions (such as diameter and depth) and to the amount of activation of the aligner for each movement. The quantity of load delivered to each tooth can be controlled to match the specific tooth resistance number. Also for crown movements the maximum movement must be limited according to the PDL thickness which is dependent on tooth morphology and age. Moreover, the attachments size generally does not provide only benefits, but the larger the attachment also increases the discomfort for the patient. Also, if the attachment is too large, it can be difficult to remove the aligner.
The quality of the movement can be defined not only by the CROT location but also by the translation or rotation axis that can be calculated directly using the measure force system delivered to the tooth.
Considering this, it is possible to create a ranking of all configurations and to use a formula as follows to assign a point to each scenario:
P=A*Quality+B*Quantity−Clinical Factor Eq. 9
A and B and Clinical factor (durability and ease of removal) can include a weight that can be assigned depending on how much significance each parameter is given/assigned in the specific situation. Generally, but not always, A+B+Discomfort=1 (100%), and thus, the percentage weight for each factor may be known/can be determined. Furthermore, it can be understood that the quantity of movements depends on the attachment diameter, depth, and/or specific shape, which generates the necessary grip depending on the movement, e.g., (depth*D+Diameter*E+shape_factor)->Quantity. It also can be known that the quality depends on K and the shape, e.g., (kxy*shape+kyz*shape+kzx*shape_factor)->Quality. Clinical factor can be affected by the attachment size, and thus, while the depth of the attachment may increase grip, it also can decrease its durability and the aligner's ease of removal.
Depth and diameter can affect also the quality. Moreover, the attachment location and orientation on the crown surface also affect the quality of movement.
It also is possible to assign a point to each configuration, from Eq. 9, as follows:
P=A*(kxy*shape+kyz*shape+kzx*shape_factor)+B*(depth*D+Diameter*E+shape_factor)−C*(depth*F+diameter*G+volume_encumbrance) Eq. 10
A; B; C; D; E; F; G; shape_factor generally depend on the movement and the specific weight that the user prefers to assign to each parameter. As an example, if patient discomfort is not a concern, a low value at C can be assigned. A, B, and C further can be user dependent and each user can decide if whether they care more about quality; quantity or patient comfort. As with equation 9, a generally, but not always, A+B+C=1 (100%), and so, the percentage weight for each factor may be known. D, E, F, G may depend on tooth morphology and movement and can be calculated running FEA analysis on multiple teeth and movement. Volume_encumbrance can depend on the shape and size of the attachment, but is different than shape_factor, e.g., Volume_encumbrance can be related to how difficult it makes to remove the aligner. The shape factor can depend on the movement and the spatial plane. As shown in the demonstration of k efficacy, the attachment generally should provide the correct grip, with sharp edges on the specific plane depending on the movement.
where MD is the mesiodistal tooth dimension at the CEJ and LB is the linguo-buccal tooth dimension at the CEJ.
In step 1012, the attachment at the crown center is designed and provided to Steps 1014 and 1016. In these steps, FEA with and without the occlusal loads, respectively, are performed and supplied to a force estimation system. In Step 1018, center of resistance coordinates are calculated or determined using one or more predictors, such as the predictors shown in TABLE 9. In step 1020, the attachments are shape tested. Different basic shapes, for example, triangular, cylindrical, and cubic were tested with FEA. These shapes are non-limiting examples as many possible geometrical designs can be tested until the results are satisfactory. If the attachments meet the testing criteria, then the different shapes are compared in Step 1024 according to the methods disclosed herein. In step 1026, for the most effective shape, the model is evaluated with respect to different diameter and depth. The force systems measured for each shape are compared and a numerical value (ranking) is assigned to describe the effectiveness of the proposed model:
Value=QI*(A*CROT+B*Axis)+Qt*Load+Clinical Factors Eq. 12
Where QI is a qualitative index, CROT and Axis are Center of resistance to ideal center of resistance and deviation of movement axis to the ideal movement axis, respectively, Qt is a quantitative index, and the clinical factors, which include without limitations, durability and ease of removal.
With respect to the diameter, the maximum value depends on the crown size. In certain embodiments, the diameters can range from 1 mm to 4 mm. In certain embodiments, the depth can range from 0.75 mm to 2 mm. In an embodiment, once the optimal shape is defined, all the diameters and depths are tested to find the best combination. In other embodiments, using the results as illustrated in
The device 1100 may also include one or more imaging elements 1112 for performing the scans and capturing images as required-including using a CBCT and an optical scanner. One or more orientation elements 1108 may be used to determine the orientation of the device, for example in relation to a user's face or eyes. Various camera-based and other sensors, as part of the imaging element 1112, may be used to determine orientation. An orientation element 1108 can determine the position of the device. The orientation element 1108 can use one or more of GPS, local network detection, Bluetooth connection, or other protocols. One or more input elements 1118 can register user input, for example input received from a touch screen display. An example device 1100 will also include power components 1116 and wireless ability in network components 1114 to communicate with other devices wirelessly.
Devices like device 1100 can also include a computer-readable storage media reader, a communications device (e.g., a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device) and working memory as described above. The computer-readable storage media reader can be connected with, or configured to receive, a computer-readable storage medium representing remote, local, fixed and/or removable storage devices as well as storage media for temporarily and/or more permanently containing, storing, transmitting and retrieving computer-readable information. The system and various devices also typically will include a number of software applications, modules, services or other elements located within at least one working memory device, including an operating system and application programs such as a client application or Web browser. It should be appreciated that alternate embodiments may have numerous variations from that described above. For example, customized hardware might also be used and/or particular elements might be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software, such as applets) or both. Further, connection to other computing devices such as network input/output devices may be employed.
Device 1100 also includes classifier 1110 to perform the simulation and prediction aspects discussed with regards to the methods in
The data store 1212 can include several separate data tables, databases or other data storage mechanisms and media 1214, 1216, 1218 for storing data relating to a particular aspect. For example, the data store 1212 illustrated includes mechanisms for storing content such as a data storage, session information storage, and a classifier 1214, 1216, 1218. The session information may correspond to user and profile information, which can be used to serve content for the production side. The data store 1212 is also shown to include the session information mechanism 1216 for storing log or session data. It should be understood that there can be many other aspects that may need to be stored in the data store, such as page image information and access rights information, which can be stored in any of the above listed mechanisms as appropriate or in additional mechanisms in the data store. The data store 1212 is operable, through logic associated therewith, to receive instructions from the application server and obtain, update or otherwise process data in response thereto. In one example, a user might submit a search request for a certain type of item. In this case, the data store 1212 might access the user information to verify the identity of the user and can access the catalog detail information to obtain information about items of that type. The information can then be returned to the user, such as in a results listing on a Web page that the user is able to view via a browser on the user device. Information for a particular item of interest can be viewed in a dedicated page or window of the browser.
Each server 1210, 1208 typically will include an operating system that provides executable program instructions for the general administration and operation of that server and typically will include computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor of the server, allow the server to perform its intended functions. Suitable implementations for the operating system and general functionality of the servers are known or commercially available and are readily implemented by persons having ordinary skill in the art, particularly in light of the disclosure herein.
The environment 1200 in one embodiment is a distributed computing environment utilizing several computer systems and components that are interconnected via communication links, using one or more computer networks or direct connections. However, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that such a system could operate equally well in a system having fewer or a greater number of components than are illustrated. Thus, the depiction of the systems herein should be taken as being illustrative in nature and not limiting to the scope of the disclosure.
The various embodiments can be further implemented in a wide variety of operating environments, which in some cases can include one or more user computers or computing devices 1202 and 1204 which can be used to operate any of a number of applications. User or client devices 1202 and 1204 can include any of a number of general purpose personal computers, such as desktop or laptop computers running a standard operating system, as well as cellular, wireless and handheld devices running mobile software and capable of supporting a number of networking and messaging protocols. Such a system can also include a number of workstations running any of a variety of commercially-available operating systems and other known applications for purposes such as development and database management. These devices can also include other electronic devices, such as dummy terminals, thin-clients, gaming systems and other devices capable of communicating via a network.
Most embodiments utilize at least one network 1206 that would be familiar to those skilled in the art for supporting communications using any of a variety of commercially-available protocols, such as TCP/IP, FTP, UPnP, NFS, and CIFS. The network 1206 can be, for example, a local area network, a wide-area network, a virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless network and any combination thereof.
In embodiments utilizing a Web server 1210, the Web server can run any of a variety of server or mid-tier applications, including HTTP servers, FTP servers, CGI servers, data servers, Java servers and business application servers. The server(s) may also be capable of executing programs or scripts in response requests from user devices, such as by executing one or more Web applications that may be implemented as one or more scripts or programs written in any programming language, such as Java®, C, C # or C++ or any scripting language, such as Perl, Python or TCL, as well as combinations thereof. The server(s) may also include database servers, including without limitation those commercially available from Oracle®, Microsoft®, Sybase® and IBM® as well as open-source servers such as MySQL, Postgres, SQLite, MongoDB, and any other server capable of storing, retrieving and accessing structured or unstructured data. Database servers may include table-based servers, document-based servers, unstructured servers, relational servers, non-relational servers or combinations of these and/or other database servers.
The environment 1200 can include a variety of data stores and other memory and storage media as discussed above. These can reside in a variety of locations, such as on a storage medium local to (and/or resident in) one or more of the computers or remote from any or all of the computers across the network. In a particular set of embodiments, the information may reside in a storage-area network (SAN) familiar to those skilled in the art. Similarly, any necessary files for performing the functions attributed to the computers, servers or other network devices may be stored locally and/or remotely, as appropriate. Where a system includes computerized devices, each such device can include hardware elements that may be electrically coupled via a bus, the elements including, for example, at least one central processing unit (CPU), at least one input device (e.g., a mouse, keyboard, controller, touch-sensitive display element or keypad) and at least one output device (e.g., a display device, printer or speaker). Such a system may also include one or more storage devices, such as disk drives, magnetic tape drives, optical storage devices and solid-state storage devices such as random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM), as well as removable media devices, memory cards, flash cards, etc.
Storage media and other non-transitory computer readable media for containing code, or portions of code, can include any appropriate media known or used in the art, such as but not limited to volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data, including RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by a system device. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other ways and/or methods to implement the various embodiments.
As discussed, different approaches can be implemented in various environments in accordance with the described embodiments. As will be appreciated, although a Web-based environment is used for purposes of explanation in several examples presented herein, different environments may be used, as appropriate, to implement various embodiments. The system includes an electronic client device, which can include any appropriate device operable to send and receive requests, messages or information over an appropriate network and convey information back to a user of the device. Examples of such client devices include personal computers, cell phones, handheld messaging devices, laptop computers, set-top boxes, personal data assistants, electronic book readers and the like. The network can include any appropriate network, including an intranet, the Internet, a cellular network, a local area network or any other such network or combination thereof. Components used for such a system can depend at least in part upon the type of network and/or environment selected. Protocols and components for communicating via such a network are well known and will not be discussed herein in detail. Communication over the network can be enabled via wired or wireless connections and combinations thereof. In this example, the network includes the Internet, as the environment includes a Web server for receiving requests and serving content in response thereto, although for other networks, an alternative device serving a similar purpose could be used, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.
It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the embodiments as set forth in the claims.
Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2021/070455 | 4/26/2021 | WO |
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
63015592 | Apr 2020 | US |